Aortic Stenosis (AS) Treatment in NYC
What is aortic stenosis?
Aortic stenosis, also known as aortic valve stenosis, is when the aortic valve in your heart tightens or narrows. When the aortic valve narrows, it becomes difficult for your blood to travel from your heart to the rest of your body.
What causes aortic stenosis?
Causes for aortic stenosis may include:
- Congenital heart defects
- Buildup on the valve that may occur as you age
- Rheumatic fever which may affect more than one valve
What are the symptoms of aortic stenosis?
Symptoms of aortic stenosis will vary. Symptoms may be mild, moderate, or severe. For some, symptoms may not occur until the valve becomes increasingly narrow. Indicators of aortic stenosis may include:
- Chest pain or tightening of the chest with physical activity
- Becoming dizzy or fainting with physical activity
- Finding difficulty in catching your breath with physical activity
- Feeling tired
- Feeling as though your heart is beating rapidly or abnormally
How is aortic stenosis diagnosed?
To determine if you have atrial fibrillation your doctor may want to know about your signs and symptoms as well as your medical history. Your doctor may also assess your heartbeat using a stethoscope, perform a physical, and conduct other tests. Tests that your doctor may perform include:
- Echocardiogram
- Electrocardiogram (EKG)
- Chest X-ray
- Exercise stress test
- Cardiac computerized tomography (CT) scan
- Cardiac MRI
- Cardiac catheterization
Can aortic stenosis lead to complications if left untreated?
If left untreated, aortic stenosis may lead to critical complications, including:
- Heart failure
- Stroke
- Infections
- Death
How is aortic stenosis treated?
Aortic stenosis treatment will vary based on your diagnosis, the symptoms you experience, and whether your condition is worsening. Medications and conservative treatment options, such as lifestyle modifications, may be recommended if your symptoms are mild. Lifestyle changes that your doctor may recommend include:
- Eating healthy
- Exercising
- Engaging in relaxing activities
- Quitting smoking
Your doctor may recommend certain procedures to have the damaged valve repaired or replaced. Recommended procedures may include aortic valve repair, balloon valvuloplasty, and aortic valve replacement.
Our heart and vein doctors at Heart Vein NYC have over 20 years of experience providing the New York City area with comprehensive,
